Managing the Invasion of Indian Mynas

Information session to improve knowledge on managing Indian Mynas.

Managing the Invasion of Indian Mynas

Information session to improve knowledge on managing Indian Mynas.

Taking Action -

MEPAAW-NT-01

The issue

Indian Mynas were introduced to Australia from southern Asia in the late 1860's and has now established along the eastern coast and progressively moving inland. Indian mynas are now listed as 'One of the world's 100 most invasive species' (World Conservation Union). In the last eight years Tenterfield has observed a vast increase in their numbers and they seem to be thriving. The issue with this species is that they are extremely aggressive and they out compete native wildlife for food, shelter and nesting sites they also carry exotic varieties of bird mite. Granite Borders Landcare was concerned that community members where unaware of the problems associated with this species moving into the area and also there seemed to be confusion in the identification of the species with it commonly be confused with the noisy miner. 

The solution

Granite Borders Landcare sort funding through the NSW Landcare MEPAAW project to be able to run an information session on identification, control methods and monitoring. Two guests where engaged to present on these topics and what can we do to manage this pest species. We where told about the neighborhood control group on the out skirts of town, lead by one of the presenters, and how collectively they have trapped over 750 birds in the last three years. Tips and tricks from this groups past experiences where shared as well as how to humanely dispose of the trapped birds. Monitoring through the employment of Feral Scan was also presented on. The project allowed Landcare to purchase 30 Indian Myna traps to be loaned out to members of the public.  

The impact

27 attendees to the information session increased there knowledge on Indian Myna identification, impacts and control and monitoring methods. Six traps where loaned out to participants directly following on from the session. 9 attendees downloaded the Feral scan app to begin recording pest species sightings and control. 

Key facts

  • 30 Indian myna traps purchased to loan to community members.
  • Information session held to increase 27 participants knowledge on identification, control and monitoring methods.

Project Partners